A San Gabriel physician and a Registered Nurse could face possible disciplinary action against their licenses for illegally administering Botox at a medical spa.

An investigation conducted by the Division of Investigation’s Operation Safe Medicine Unit found that a Registered Nurse was offering Botox, laser hair removal, and other medical procedures without the supervision of a physician, as required by California law. Registered Nurses are allowed to perform some medical procedures, but only upon receipt of instructions from a doctor and within specific limitations.

Eastern Beauty Medical Spa, in San Gabriel, was owned by Dr. Edwin Choi and by Registered Nurse Lydia Perkins. During two undercover operations, it was discovered that Perkins was conducting medical consultations, providing medical recommendations, and then performing medical procedures without having consulted Dr. Choi or any other physician.

In March 2015, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office charged Perkins with two misdemeanor counts for practicing medicine without a license. Dr. Choi was charged with two misdemeanor counts of aiding and abetting the unlicensed practice of medicine.

The results of the investigations have been forwarded to the Board of Registered Nursing for consideration of disciplinary action against Perkins’ license. The Medical Board of California will take the appropriate action regarding Dr. Choi’s license following the outcome of the criminal prosecution.